Duffy and Schoob adopted a reading-focused program used at another school district called “A Million Words” – a school-wide effort that challenged students, staff, families and neighbors to read one million words between Feb. 14 and May 15.

After reading a book, users entered the book in an online system, which also provided word counts for most books. Dozens met the challenge individually and as teams, including 68 students.

Of the 68 readers, some said the challenge was motivation to read more, while others say they appreciated the reward for reading they would have done anyway.

The challenge was funded in part by a grant from the D181 Foundation. Duffy and Schoob hope to continue the program next year and perhaps expand it by inviting other District 181 schools to join in the challenge, according to a news release.